As movers, we’ve picked up a few tips and tricks over the years that help us streamline the process. There are a lot of ways to save time so you can stay on top of other important things in your life, too, even while juggling a move.
How to Save Time When Moving
1. Put together a timeline and checklist
Two of the most valuable tools of any move is a timeline and checklist. Moving looks like a simple process, and for the most part, it is, but there are a lot of small tasks and details that can throw the entire event out of order if even one of them is forgotten or not completed in a timely manner.
Instead of burdening yourself with trying to remember everything, write it down. As soon as you know you’re moving, make a timeline listing everything that needs to be done by a certain deadline, such as when you need to start and finish packing, when you need to submit a change of address forms, and by what date you need to have certain projects finished. This will help you stay on track and not miss anything important.
Then, make a checklist of every task so you can go through them one by one and make sure you haven’t missed anything.
Click here for a comprehensive moving checklist you can print up.
2. Ruthlessly declutter
The more stuff you have, the longer it will take to pack and move it. Before you start packing, go through everything and purge as much as you can. It can be hard to get rid of stuff at first but once you do, you’ll likely find the process to be very freeing. You’ll save money on boxes and save space on the truck, too, so it’s a win-win all around.
Click here for tips on how to declutter for a move.
3. Pack smart
Packing can be a time-consuming task, but there are ways to make it go faster. The best option is to hire professional packers to do it for you. However, if you want to do it yourself, then there are some tricks to streamline the process.
One of the best ways to save time is by setting up several boxes ahead of time rather than waiting to make another box once the last one has been filled. Focusing on one task at a time – making a bunch of boxes, then packing them all up – gives you more momentum which helps things run smoother.
Another smart thing to do is to inventory your items. While it may take an extra few minutes while you’re packing, it will greatly streamline the unpacking process because you won’t have to go searching through each box to find what you’re looking for.
4. Stock up on supplies
One of the most frustrating parts of moving can be running out of supplies when you’re in the middle of packing. Then, you have to stop what you’re doing and run to the hardware store to get more tape, packing paper, boxes, etc. Always overestimate how much you will need so you don’t run into this delay. You can always return the excess later once you’re settled in your new place.
5. Prepare both homes for moving day
Moving day is the busiest in your timeline, so to keep things running smoothly, it’s important to do as much prep ahead of time as possible. In your old home, make sure pathways are clear for movers so they can get to work right away. Have your pets set up in a secure location and make sure all of the boxes are clearly labeled so movers can keep them organized.
In your new home, make sure all the utilities are turned on (especially the air conditioning), the place is clean, and you’ve done any necessary repairs before the big day.
Click here for tips on how to prepare your new home for move-in day.
6. Schedule a moving company as soon as possible
Movers can book up fast, particularly during busy seasons, so it’s important to schedule your movers as soon as you know what day you’ll want to move. You’ll also want to give yourself time to do adequate research and vetting before choosing a company. Booking as soon as possible will save you the stress of having to rush to find a moving company with availability if you wait until the last minute.
7. Pack a survival kit
There’s nothing worse than getting to your new place and discovering that everything you need – like plates, cutlery, toilet paper, and toothpaste – are packed away. Set aside necessities like paper goods, toiletries, and cleaning supplies in a separate first-night box so you’ll be comfortable the first night in your new place.
Click here for a list of items to include in your first-night box.
8. Change your address and notify everyone in advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to change over your addresses and notify important people and companies of your move. Instead, make a list early on and take care of them as soon as possible. You definitely don’t want to keep getting bills for the old house or realize you aren’t receiving important documents in the mail because you forgot to change your address.
Click here for a list of places you’ll want to change your address for a move.